Key Takeaways
- Luxury pools in Naples usually start around $80K and can go over $150K.
- Concrete pools cost more but last longer and allow full customization.
- Vinyl and fiberglass pools are cheaper but offer fewer design options.
- Extra features like spas, lighting, and waterfalls quickly raise the price.
- Bigger, more complex pools cost more to build and maintain.
- The whole process usually takes 8–16 weeks.
- You’ll need permits and inspections before using the pool.
- Smart systems and quality materials make maintenance easier.
- A luxury pool can add 7–10% to your home’s value.
- Always work with an experienced Florida pool builder who knows local codes.
Living in Southwest Florida means abundant sun, gentle breezes, and the promise of long, relaxing afternoons by the water. Whether you own a luxury home in Naples or manage commercial real estate in other parts of Florida, building a pool is a decision that shapes property value, enjoyment, and how you use your outdoor living space.
As the trend for custom outdoor retreats grows, questions about the true cost and complexity of building a pool become ever more relevant.
Adding a swimming pool to your property comes with a distinct set of considerations. The process itself can appear straightforward, but in reality, the final price tag is shaped by project scale, local codes, and personal vision.
In high-end communities such as Port Royal, Pelican Bay, or Moorings, discerning owners expect their pools to blend flawless form and function while adhering to the highest construction standards. The choices made early on (about materials, features, and layout) deeply impact cost, experience, and long-term ease of care.
In general, the average cost to install a “standard” new in-ground swimming pool in the United States ranges from $35,000 to $65,000. Luxury pools can easily go beyond that price bracket.
However, you should know what these figures really mean, not only in terms of the initial investment, but also the value, enjoyment, and prestige a luxury pool brings to Florida’s finest addresses.
How Much Is It to Build a Pool in Florida
Discussing pool construction in Florida means starting with baseline figures, then breaking down what can move your investment higher or lower. Prices for an inground pool installation vary widely based on location, size, and the unique requirements of each owner.
1. Typical Pool Project Budgets
For most luxury residential projects in Naples and similar communities, budget expectations should start at $80,000 for a basic custom inground pool and often climb well above $150,000 once finishes, automation, and outdoor features are added.
These costs do not include landscaping or high-end decking, both of which are almost always included in luxury swimming pool projects.
2. Florida Backyard Size and Pool Area
Southwest Florida homes often sit on lots that allow for generous pool footprints, but zoning and setback rules set clear limits. In communities such as Port Royal, space is rarely the constraint; instead, the goal is to harmonize the pool with the home’s lines and the landscape.
As a rule, larger swimming pools cost more. Still, strategic design can allow for striking results even with limited space.
3. Custom Features and Water Features
Luxury pools in Florida have evolved far beyond the standard rectangle. Homeowners are opting for designs that feel like private resorts, blending art and engineering in equal measure. Features such as cascading waterfalls, infinity edges, tanning ledges, and programmable LED lighting transform a pool into a showpiece.
Water features alone can add anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000, depending on complexity, while bespoke touches (like integrated spas, zero-entry edges, or in-water seating) can elevate both the design and the experience. Angi reports that even a simple waterfall can cost upwards of $4,000 to add.
Every element, from tile selection to deck materials, should reflect the homeowner’s lifestyle and vision. The result is a pool that feels personal, timeless, and unmistakably Floridian.
Factors Affecting Pool Construction Costs
The price of building a pool in Florida depends on the choices you make, both practical and aesthetic. From materials to engineering, every decision plays a role.
1. Concrete Pools Versus Other Pool Types
Concrete (gunite) pools remain the preferred choice for luxury homes and high-end commercial properties because of their customization potential and lasting strength. They can be shaped to fit any design vision, such as curved edges, integrated spas, vanishing edges, or intricate tile inlays, and finished with premium materials like quartz or pebble aggregate for a truly bespoke look.
While vinyl and fiberglass pools can cost up to 50% less upfront, they’re typically limited in form and size, and offer fewer options for on-site customization. Over time, concrete’s resilience, repairability, and adaptability make it the superior choice for upscale properties where design freedom and longevity matter most.
2. Large Pool Versus Smaller Options
While pool size is a straightforward calculation (bigger pools mean higher costs), there are nuances worth noting.
For example, a larger water surface translates into more excavation, more steel and concrete, and more complex plumbing and electrical. Complexity compounds the price, and so does the inclusion of deep ends, beach entries, or large tanning ledges.
Conversely, a smartly designed lap pool or plunge pool can bring elegance at a lower final cost. Bigger doesn’t always have to mean better!
3. Pool Design and Outdoor Space Integration
In Florida luxury markets, the pool is rarely a standalone item. It is planned as the centerpiece of an integrated outdoor space, complete with lighting, outdoor kitchens, covered patios, and maybe even a swim-up bar.
Blending the pool with the overall landscape enhances usability and property value but will influence the construction budget. State-of-the-art automation, custom tile work, and bespoke finishes also play a big part in the final figure.
Pool Construction Process Explained
Knowing what to expect, from the first design meeting to the final splash, helps homeowners feel good about every step.
1. Licensed Pool Builders and Pool Contractor Roles
Selecting the right contractor is your first big task. A seasoned builder understands both Florida’s strict coastal codes and the high standards of luxury communities in Naples.
From design to engineering approvals, a professional builder coordinates architects, engineers, and skilled crews to deliver the pool safely and efficiently. Depending on where you live in Florida, you may also have to account for pool flood hazards.
2. Installation Process and Construction Process
The process begins with a site evaluation, soil tests, and detailed plans reflecting both your wishes and compliance requirements. Next comes excavation, steel reinforcement, and the plumbing and electrical groundwork. These steps set the foundation for the entire structure.
Once the concrete shell is sprayed and cured, finishing details such as tile, coping, and decking are installed, often in parallel with outdoor kitchen or patio construction. Expect the timeline to span from six to twelve weeks, depending on complexity and weather.
3. Final Inspection and Permitting
In Naples, and just about every city in Florida, your new pool will go through a series of inspections before it’s ready to dive in. The final approval looks at structure, safety features like alarms and barriers, and overall code compliance.
Once everything checks out, it’s time for the best part: filling your dream pool and enjoying it. Staying proactive with permitting and inspections keeps the process moving smoothly and helps you avoid unnecessary delays.
FAQs About Building a Pool in Florida
- How long does it take to build a custom pool in Florida?
For most luxury projects in Southwest Florida, construction typically takes 8 to 16 weeks, depending on design complexity, permitting timelines, and weather conditions. Larger or fully integrated outdoor living spaces may take longer.
- What’s the best time of year to start pool construction?
Pool projects can begin any time of year in Florida, but starting in fall or winter can help you avoid the busiest building season and have your pool ready by spring or early summer.
- Do I need special permits for a pool in Naples or Collier County?
Yes. Local permitting and multiple inspections are required to meet safety and structural codes, including fencing, alarms, and barrier regulations. Partnering with an experienced builder like Carlson Harris ensures every step complies with regional standards.
- How can I make my pool easier to maintain long-term?
Choosing high-efficiency filtration systems, automation controls, and saltwater technology can simplify maintenance and extend the life of your investment. Quality materials and expert installation also reduce long-term upkeep costs.
- Can a new pool increase my home’s resale value?
Absolutely. In Naples and other luxury markets, a well-designed pool can increase a property’s value by up to 7%–10%, especially when paired with a cohesive outdoor living area that complements the home’s architecture.
Schedule Your Private Pool Design Consultation Today
Every generation redefines what luxury living means in Florida, and today’s pools are no exception. We’re talking about architectural statements and personal sanctuaries built for beauty, comfort, and longevity.
Homeowners who understand the balance between design, cost, and craftsmanship can make decisions that truly elevate their property and lifestyle.
At Carlson Harris, that understanding is second nature. As third- and fourth-generation builders, our team brings decades of experience in crafting bespoke pools and outdoor living environments that blend artistry with structural integrity.
Looking to begin your next project? Let’s create an outdoor space that reflects your vision and enhances your home’s legacy. Schedule a consultation with us to discuss custom pool design, outdoor living upgrades, or full-scale renovations.
